Keeping His Perspective

As I've engaged in online conversations, it has indeed truly caused me to think more critically and attempted to come across as though I wasn't taking matters personally. Mostly, it felt like it was an exercise in restraining my sarcasm. More importantly, I believe it was an exercise in trying to portray truth with coming across as anything that would cause people to shut down and resort to the tactics that leave people frustrated as they walk away from the discussion.

To that end, one conversation in particularly was, I feel, incredibly successful. No name-calling, both sides sticking to the point as best they could, both seeking answers to the other's argument...and very little sarcasm. One or two lines might have slipped in with a smiley face emoticon at the end to express humor in making my point.

That said, I'm hoping my words were received well...not as one trying to force his beliefs, but with compassion and sincerity trying to portray that we are on serious and unstable grounds. Just in writing that line, I'm reminded of Jesus' as he carefully responded to woman who said she didn't have a husband, "You are right. You've had five husbands and the man you are with now, is not your husband." He wasn't trying to be smart with her...just that He knew where she was in life, to a greater degree than she was willing to share.

That said, as we pray for church effectiveness and efficiency on this last Sunday of June, the picture is appropriate.  On the many social and cultural issues where it is easy to state our opinions or beliefs before we share the source of them, one way or the other, we need to invite people to understand the Source itself, and less concerned with how we will be perceived and most likely, misunderstood.  

There are so many opportunities for which it is said, "You won't/don't want to miss out on this!". Yet for such a time as this, I sense God is saying the same for the believer. "You won't want to miss out how I can use you through this opportunity". What some seek to destroy is the same thing for which God has a plan and purpose.  If we don't unplug with the intent to find our balance in Him for the purpose of re-connecting, then we will surely miss what God desires for us. And we will neither be effective nor efficient.

Starting with me, I'm praying I will do a better job of seeking first, the Kingdom of Heaven.  If I don't then isn't possible, that what was meant to be added, will all be taken away? I'm not sure, but we can't live life on our own, let alone an effective life for Him on our own. Pray for His help anew and afresh, today.

- PNC

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